Non-Traditional
Shelter
Concept of
Operations
Template
December 31, 2011
This Non-Traditional Shelter Concept of Operations was created by the American Red Cross at the request of the City of Los Angeles. This document was prepared under a grant from FEMA's Grant Programs Directorate, U.S. Department of Homeland Security. Points of view or opinions expressed in this document are those of the authors and do not necessarily represent the official position or policies of FEMA's Grant Programs Directorate or the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.
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This Non-Traditional Shelter (NTS) Concept of Operations (ConOps) including its Dormitory (Dorm) Annex was created by the American Red Cross at the request of the City of Los Angeles and through funding from FEMA’s Regional Catastrophic Preparedness Grant Program (RCPGP).
The intended audience of this template includes: local, state, and/or tribal emergency management professionals; Emergency Operations Center (EOC) personnel; NTS support-specific Emergency Support Functions (ESFs) and ESF-assigned agencies; NGOs and private-sector agencies providing NTS support; and any other ESFs, agencies, or organizations deemed appropriate.
The information provided in this document was culled from a variety of resources, including guidance from the Mega-Shelter Planning Guide: A Resource and Best Practices Reference Guide created by the International Association of Venue Managers, Inc. and the American Red Cross; the Los Angeles Operational Area Mass Care Annex Template; the Los Angeles Operational Area Mass Care Guide and NTS Annex; the City of Los Angeles Mass Care: Functional Support Annex; and input from subject matter experts in the field of emergency management catastrophic event planning, mass care, and non-traditional sheltering.1 Additional recommendations in the document and appendices are provided by the Sphere Handbook: Humanitarian Charter and Minimum Standards in Humanitarian Response.2
This NTS ConOps document is designed to be used as a template; however, no state, local, or tribal jurisdiction is the same. Recognizing that each has its own requirements, this template provides general language that jurisdictions can make distinctive to their own needs and communities by adding to and/or replacing with jurisdiction specific language. Alternately, jurisdictions may elect to copy some of the text from specific sections for use in other documents.
This document is intended to assist jurisdictions and their partners in planning for a more feasible and seamless multi-jurisdictional NTS response. This document uses principles of the Incident Command System (ICS) and the National Incident Management System (NIMS).
The ConOps is designed to be incorporated into the jurisdiction’s Emergency Operations Plan (EOP)/Emergency Response Plan (ERP) or used as a stand-alone document in coordination with the jurisdiction’s EOP/ERP. It includes a Dormitory Annex, which focuses on providing specific services within the Dormitory Area of an NTS. The document can also be used to provide a framework for creation of other annexes. A list of additional recommended annexes is included at the end of this document for possible future development by the jurisdiction.
Nothing in the document alters or impedes the ability of local, State, Federal, territorial, and/or Tribal Nation governments or their agencies to carry out their specific authorities or perform their responsibilities under all applicable laws, executive orders, and directives. The template is not intended to alter the existing authorities of individual municipal or county agencies and it does not convey new authorities upon any local, State, or Federal official.
How to Use This Template
The template follows this foreword, beginning with a sample cover page. For a jurisdiction’s individual document, delete any pages up to that cover page. There are several points of information to note:
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Regular text – sample – should be included in the Jurisdiction’s ConOps.
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Bolded, highlighted text in parentheses – [sample] – describes what information should be included or indicates that the language following may or may not be applicable to the jurisdiction. If the information is inapplicable it should be deleted.
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Highlighted regular text in parentheses—[sample]— should be replaced with jurisdiction-specific input (e.g., name of jurisdiction.)
Non-Traditional
Shelter
Concept of
Operations
December 31, 2011
Table of Contents
1.Mega-shelters are large facilities (e.g., stadiums or conference centers) that can accommodate large groups of evacuees. 19
2.Open space shelters are large outdoor shelters (e.g., fairgrounds or parks) and use soft-sided or temporarily constructed structures. 19
3.[Include information on laws that delineate responsibility for emergency care and shelter at the local level; local or state emergency ordinances outlining powers, roles, and responsibilities, and providing for the development and adoption of emergency plans and response; and local or state health plans or requirements in regard to disaster.] 22
4.In the event of specific types of incidents such as bioterrorism or nuclear incident, sheltering away from the impact area may continue for an extensive period. Non-Traditional Shelters may be more readily adaptable to such longevity than traditional shelters. 22
5.If multiple Non-Traditional Shelters need to be opened in the [Jurisdiction], the Area Command procedures for the [Jurisdiction] will be adapted to establish an Area Command Shelter Coordinator or a multi-agency coordination group at the regional level. 22
6.The [primary government agency/department responsible for NTS] will serve as the primary agency responsible [Jurisdiction] NTS operations. 22
7.[The primary support agency for Mass Care (MC)] will serve as the primary support agency responsible for operating Mass Care at an NTS. 22
8.To supplement the [primary government agency/department responsible for NTS], the [Jurisdiction] will have trained staff and volunteers to manage and operate an NTS. 22
9.NGOs, Private Non-Profit Organizations (PNPs), Faith-Based Organizations (FBOs) and Community-Based Organizations (CBOs) that normally respond to disaster situations will do so. 23
10.The private sector will seek ways to participate in the provision of NTS support services. 23
11.CBOs and faith-based organizations that provide social services and serve vulnerable populations will initially be overwhelmed with requests for service. 23
12.Neighborhood organizations and local groups, some without training, will emerge to provide mass care and assistance independent of local government. 23
13.Spontaneous sheltering will arise outside the response system by persons in the displaced population or persons in the community seeking to help. 23
14.The duration and scope of local, State, and Federal involvement will be proportional to the situation’s severity and the assistance needed. 23
15.The percentage of the displaced population that seeks congregate care is dependent on the size, scope, and nature of the incident/event. 23
16.A portion of those seeking shelter can be expected to bring their household pets with them. 23
17.A percentage of the population seeking shelter will be people with disabilities and others with access and functional needs including those: 23
18.Service animals shall remain with the persons to whom they are assigned throughout every stage of disaster assistance. Household pets will be treated as the law requires. Federal assistance and the definition of a service animal are outlined in the PETS Act of 2006. 23
19.The [Jurisdiction] EOC will be activated for an incident/event severe enough to create a mass care need. Consistent with the [Jurisdiction] EOP/ERP, the EOC will manage and coordinate among local governments to support response. 23
20.If multiple Non-Traditional Shelters are opened in the [Jurisdiction], this will add complexity to NTS operations and will impact the availability of resources. 23
21.In a major disaster, mass care operations will require an influx of resources from outside the area to be fully operational. A full complement of resources will be contingent on the severity of the incident/event, impact to transportation infrastructure, and the ability to move resources and supplies into and within the affected area. 24
22.Mutual aid assistance from unaffected jurisdictions and from State and Federal emergency agencies will be available, but not immediately. 24
23.State, Federal, and Emergency Management Assistance Compact (EMAC) resources will likely be limited during the first few days following a disaster when there are multiple areas requiring support and/or there has been widespread damage to access/transportation infrastructure and to suppliers. 24
24.Some displaced residents will spontaneously converge on public parks and open spaces as an alternative to using indoor congregate shelters after incidents/events that have potentially affected the structural integrity of buildings. 24
25.When multiple and concurrent Non-Traditional Shelters are activated, resources (e.g., medical, transportation) will be exponentially impacted by competing demands, needs, and priorities, therefore coordinated resource management for all NTS operations will be necessary. 24
UC/IC Staff 28
26.Oversee all NTS operations. 28
27.Liaise with EOC leadership. 28
28.Maintain significant presence in dormitory area. 28
1.Provide subject matter expert advice on Mass Care operations. 28
1.Disseminate information to evacuees, including people with disabilities and others with access and functional needs. 28
29.Organize press briefings. 28
30.Facilitate media and guest visitation. 28
1.Identify hazardous situations at the NTS. 29
31.Provide safety advice in the Incident Action Plan (IAP). 29
32.Exercise emergency authority to prevent and stop unsafe acts. 29
33.Brief UC/IC on safety issues and concerns. 29
1.Coordinate with jurisdiction and/or State EOC. 29
1.Maintain a list of assisting and cooperating agencies and agency representatives. 29
2.Point of contact for agency representatives. 29
3.Provide NTS status updates to agencies supporting NTS. 29
OPERATIONS SECTION 29
1.Oversee all NTS functional operations including MC, Public Safety/Security, Health & Medical, Reception, and Evacuee Support Services. 29
1.Oversee all MC operations. 30
34.Oversee dorm areas. 30
35.Coordinate with other functions for support services (e.g., custodial, resources). 30
36.Provide evacuee counts to NTS MC Management. 30
1.Provide food/beverage service support at or to NTS. 30
1.Provide appropriate security at NTS. 30
37.Coordinate with off-site decontamination operations if activated. 30
38.Monitor overall site safety, including fire safety. 30
1.Support ongoing health needs of evacuees and staff. 31
39.Provide resources to support medical sheltering. 31
40.Create and manage medical unit. 31
41.Coordinate with Sanitation for vector control. 31
42.Coordinate with Public Safety/Security and Mental Health Services regarding unaccompanied minors. 31
43.Coordinate with off-site decontamination operations if activated. 31
1.Provide personal care giving assistance to evacuees who require it. 31
2.Support child respite care, child daycare. 31
3.Assist evacuees with service animals in maintaining their animals (e.g., feeding, walking) if they are unable to do so themselves. 31
1.Monitor evacuee population and staff for mental health needs. 32
44.Provide crisis counseling as needed. 32
45.Refer evacuees with mental health needs beyond the capabilities of an NTS to external resources. 32
1.Welcome, register, and track incoming and outgoing evacuees. 32
46.Coordinate evacuee tracking with Reception Processing Sites (RPS). 32
47.Maintain awareness of all individuals entering and exiting NTS. 32
1.Manage household pet registration and direction to household pet shelter. 32
48.Coordinate with MC for visitation or care of animals by owners, if applicable. 32
1.Coordinate, organize, and monitor disaster recovery services and, if feasible, an on-site Disaster Recovery Center. 32
PLANNING & INTELLIGENCE SECTION 32
1.Oversee all develop IAP, Situation Planning, Contingency Planning, Documentation, and Demobilization Planning. 33
49.Oversee personnel and volunteer management through the Resource Unit 33
50.Brief incoming staff on NTS functions and on roles and responsibilities provided by specific staff. 33
1.Collect, process and organize information relating to the growth, mitigation or intelligence activities taking place. 33
51. Prepare future predictions of growth, maps and intelligence information 33
1.Responsible for the maintenance of accurate, up-to-date NTS files. 33
1.Develop the NTS Demobilization Plan which includes release priorities and procedures and check out. 33
1.Maintain and post the current status of all assigned tactical resources and personnel at the NTS. 34
52.Establish check in procedures for staff. 34
53.Prepare assignment list. 34
54.Maintain master roster of all tactical resources checked in at NTS. 34
55.Evaluate resources committed, the effect additional resources will have and anticipate resource needs. 34
LOGISTICS SECTION 34
1.Oversee all Logistics and NTS operations including Site Support, Bulk Distribution, Supply, Donations Management, and IT/Communications. 34
56.Identify long-term service and support requirements for planned and expected operations. 34
57.Provide input and review the Communications Plan, Medical Plan and Traffic Plan. 34
1.Supervise the IT & Communications, Medical, and Food Units 35
58.Manage transportation for daily activities. 35
59.Coordinate urgent and non-urgent medical transportation 35
1.Develop and implement logistics plans in support of the operations. 35
60.Oversee Bulk Distribution, Facilities, Ground Support, and Supply. 35
61.Receive, store and distribute all supplies at the NTS. 35
62.Maintain an inventory of supplies; store, disburse and service all non-expendable supplies and equipment. 35
FINANCE AND ADMINISTRATION SECTION 35
1.Maintain all financial, administrative and cost analysis aspects of the incident. 36
63.Oversee Cost and Procurement Units. 36
64.Collect all cost data, perform cost effectiveness analyses, and provide cost estimates. 36
65.Coordinate with EOC Finance and Administration Branch on reimbursement issues. 36
1.Administer all financial matters pertaining to vendor contracts, leases and fiscal agreements. 36
1.Maintain equipment and personnel time records and manage the commissary operations. 36
66.Registration 37
67.Mass Care 37
68.Public Information 37
69.Site Maintenance 37
70.Public Safety and Security 37
71.Logistics 37
72.Health and Medical 37
73.Basic Mental Health Crisis Counseling 38
74.Unaccompanied Minors 38
75.Expanded Feeding or canteen staff and kitchen staff, if an on-site kitchen is available 38
76.Expanded Health Care (e.g., medical care, infirmary/health clinic, pharmaceutical services, and personal assistance providers for people with disabilities and others with access and functional needs) 38
77.Expanded Public Safety and Security 38
78.Spiritual Care 38
79.Entertainment and Recreation 38
80.Laundry Service 38
81.Record Keeping 38
82.Cost Accounting 38
83.Information Technology 38
84.Transportation 38
85.Family Reunification 38
86.Bulk Distribution 38
87.Parking and Traffic Control 38
88.Recovery Assistance (e.g., representatives from FEMA, local NGOs) to provide evacuees with help for recovery 38
89.[Name of Agency] will advise all responsible agencies under this ConOps to respond in their assigned function. 38
90.When a jurisdiction determines the need to activate an NTS, the MC Branch at the managing EOC will coordinate the activation of the NTS directly with and as stipulated in any agreement an agency or organization has with the site owner/manager to use it as an NTS. If no Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) or contract exists, one will be created. An example of an NTS MOU can be found in the IAVM Guide. For a checklist for the initial setup of an NTS, see Appendix C. 38
91.If the NTS site is owned by the [Jurisdiction], the [primary support agency for MC] will coordinate the shelter’s activation with the [primary government agency/department]. 39
92.If the site is privately owned, the [Jurisdiction’s government lead for MC] will coordinate with the site owner/management, the [primary support agency for MC], and the Logistics Branch to create or implement an MOU or contract. 39
93.Assess the [Jurisdiction’s] capability to open a Non-Traditional Shelter in consultation with members of the local EOC. 39
94.Determine if the [Jurisdiction’s] existing internal support infrastructure can support an NTS and at what capacity. Request additional resources—material and human—if needed. 39
95.Advise responsible agencies of imminent NTS Plan activation. 39
96.Activate NTS ConOps. 39
97.Specific to the incident/event, ensure all necessary agreements, contracts, and other applicable documents for an NTS are fully executed. 39
98.Activate and assemble the NTS Unified Command. 39
99.Determine the NTS’s organizational structure of the NTS. 39
100.Set up the NTS prior to opening (e.g., signage, layout, bringing in ramps, testing sanitation, emergency exits). 39
101.Open and operate the NTS. 39
102.Open space shelter: 40
103.Additional Considerations for a Mega-Shelter 42
104.Additional Considerations for an Open Space Shelter 42
105.The [Jurisdiction] may use a checklist, such as the Department of Justice (DOJ) ADA Checklist for Emergency Shelters, when assessing the viability of a location to support NTS sheltering. This type of checklist may be used to support planning considerations to provide reasonable accommodations for people with disabilities and others with access and functional needs. 43
106.If pre-designated sites are unavailable (e.g., damaged, in use) an additional site will be assessed and an agreement created. 43
107.The [Jurisdiction intending to use the site] will activate the agreement. 43
108.Arrangements and notifications will be made in accordance with the agreement. 43
109.Confirmation that these actions have been completed will then be relayed to the MC Branch. 43
110.If it is determined at the Incident Command (IC) level that the opening of an NTS is recommended, the Field IC or his/her designee will contact the [Jurisdiction’s Emergency Manager] at the EOC and recommend an NTS be activated. 44
111.Once an activation order has been received by the EOC MC Branch, the MC Branch Director will consult with the Shelter Operations Unit. 44
112.The MC Branch Director and Shelter Operations Unit will work in concert with the [primary agency responsible for MC] to determine which site will be used as an NTS. If possible, coordination will also be conducted with a Mega-Shelter Assistance Team member to determine the feasibility of the site. 44
113..Additional Considerations for a Mega-Shelter 45
114.Additional Considerations for an Open Space Shelter 45
115.Site Safety Plan 46
116.All functions will coordinate staffing requests through the Planning & Intelligence Resource Unit. (For more information on staffing at an NTS, see the Non-Traditional Shelter Staffing section and the Speed-to-Scale Considerations subsection under the NTS Operations – Prior to Opening of NTS section.) 46
117.All NTS staff will be briefed on their roles and responsibilities in providing assistance to people with disabilities and others with access and functional needs. This information will include: 46
118.Communication resources will be requested through the Logistics Management and Resource Support Branch. 47
119.The NTS Unified Command will apprise the EOC of NTS status, population counts, significant events, and requests for resources. 47
120.Individual NTS functions will follow their reporting SOPs/structures for reporting information (e.g., public health surveillance, logistics inventory) and may communicate directly with the relevant Branch or Unit in the EOC for technical guidance. 47
121.NTS Incident Commander will report to the [Jurisdiction’s government lead for MC]. 47
122.When possible, additional statistical information will be included in the MC SitRep such as a breakdown of age ranges. [If applicable: The Red Cross will break down age ranges as follows: Ages 2 and under, 3-7, 8-12, 13-18, 19-65, and over 65.] 48
123.All applicable data will be entered into the National Shelter System (NSS), which is the responsibility of the Red Cross. 48
124.Health staff 48
125.Security 48
126.[If applicable: Additional staffing resources at registration, if available, include: Agency staff to process the initial intake and registration of unaccompanied minors, if available] 48
127.Translators, including those for ASL 48
128.Authorized staff and visitors (e.g., vendors, volunteers, and guests) will register before entering the NTS. 49
129.Spontaneous volunteers and persons seeking to donate items to support the disaster or NTS operation: 49
130.Implementation of NTS Feeding Operations Plan 50
131.Other Feeding Resources 52
132.[Agency] will compile a list of all vetted and recommended agencies, organizations, and resources (e.g., Salvation Army, Red Cross) providing family reunification services and ensure coordination between the authorized groups. 52
133.[Agency] will determine and implement the reunification systems to be used. One or all of the following systems may be used: 52
134.In a mass casualty and missing persons incident/event: 52
135.A designated area in the NTS will be established for family reunification services. This area will include, if possible: 53
136.For guidance, the Unified Command will contact the EOC who can contact the [Agency responsible for child protective services]. In addition, support can be obtained from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) through their National Emergency Child Locator Center (NECLC). 53
137.If an unaccompanied minor cannot be reunited with a parent or guardian immediately, designated authorized shelter staff will supervise the minor in an access-controlled, highly visible NTS location for ongoing monitoring and safeguarding until reunification with a parent or guardian or transfer to the appropriate authorities. 53
138.Trained, authorized, and credentialed personal assistance providers, as determined by the [Jurisdiction Health agency] (see the Personal Assistance Provision section in Table 1) will provide temporary care. Every effort will be made to designate two staff members to supervise the minor. The minor will not be left with other minors without authorized adult supervision. 53
139.The Reception function will use the Red Cross Unaccompanied Minors Report Form or a similar form at registration to document the minor’s arrival, changes in circumstances, etc. 53
140.Unaccompanied minors should not be photographed or interviewed by third parties other than local or state law enforcement, child welfare agencies within the City, or partner agencies who have a signed MOU with the jurisdiction to provide services and care to minors. 53
141.Parents or guardians must provide government-issued identification when taking custody of a minor, and the transfer must be documented. 54
142.If the minor cannot be reunified with a parent or guardian within a reasonable period of time (4-6 hours), the NTS Childcare Team will coordinate with on-site Security and the Law Branch to communicate with the [Jurisdiction’s agency responsible for children and family services, if appropriate]. [Agency] will take the minor into protective custody. [Jurisdiction’s agency responsible for children and family services] will determine where protective custody will take place based on their internal protocols and processes. 54
143.Medical Reserve Corps (MRC). 54
144.In a disaster which has received a Presidential disaster declaration, Federal health and medical resources may be requested for assistance as needed. These may include a Disaster Medical Assistance Team (DMAT), Disaster Mortuary Operational Response Team (DMORT), and use of the National Disaster Medical System (NDMS). 54
145.NGOs with health-specific missions. 54
146.Local partners such as pharmacies and medical/nursing schools and universities. 55
147.[List additional resources.] 55
148.Health services 55
149.Medical Services 56
150.Medical transportation: A staging area where transportation to a more advanced medical facility can be coordinated. Advanced life-support resources may be necessary in the staging area if transportation is delayed. 56
151.American Red Cross Disaster Mental Health Services. 57
152.[Jurisdiction] Department of Mental Health. 57
153.Mobile clinics. 57
154.Teams coordinated by the state’s or Federal ESF #8 Public Health and Medical Services. 57
155.[List additional resources.] 57
156.Adult Care 57
157.Vector control (coordinated with Site Maintenance, Sanitation). 58
158.Implement isolation or quarantine, if necessary. 58
159.Coordinate with decontamination function and hospitals, in the event evacuees have potentially been contaminated, for contaminant information and necessary follow-up surveillance. 58
160.Ensure infection control practices are followed, with reference to the [Jurisdiction’s] existing SOPs and plans, which includes: 58
161.For more information, see Infection Prevention for Alternate Care Sites guidance published by the Association for Professionals in Infection Control and Epidemiology, Inc. (APIC). 58
162.For health and medical staff: 59
163.To fulfill its responsibilities for public safety, the Law Branch will: 60
164.The MC Branch will inform the Law Branch of the location of an NTS and any general concerns, such as specific security needs. The Law Branch will assign personnel to provide security and will inform any local law enforcement officers in the area that an NTS is opening. 60
165.If additional public safety resources are needed at the NTS, requests will be made by Security to the Law Branch in coordination with Planning & Logistics Resource Unit. 60
166.Internal and external security will be provided by Security based on plans they determine appropriate for the site. 60
167.Law enforcement will coordinate the implementation of safety/security related NTS policies, including: 60
168.Physical screening methods for initial entry and reentry (e.g., bag screening stations, metal detectors, magnetometers, and other security procedures or devices) will be used as necessary and if available. Security will coordinate with Registration and Mass Care to implement these procedures. 61
169.NTS traffic management plans will include information regarding the following: 61
170.Security will coordinate with the Traffic Management Branch to control streets surrounding the NTS. 62
171.Security will coordinate with the off-site Volunteer Reception Center (VRC) to determine what credentials and identification will be needed for Spontaneous Volunteers to access the NTS. 62
172.Security will provide and implement an identification system to ensure only authorized non-evacuees (e.g., guests, media, staff) have access to the NTS. 62
173.Security will be at each ingress and egress point to the NTS. If security personnel are available, all entrances to the NTS that are not declared to be ingress or egress points will also be staffed to ensure re-direction through the authorized security checkpoint. 62
174.If possible, a secured area will be designated for smoking that allows evacuees to re-enter the NTS without re-screening. 62
175.When an evacuee from a unique population registers at an NTS, all NTS registration protocols will be followed. The sheltering organization and on-site security will follow all applicable laws and request additional guidance from the EOC if needed. 62
176.The Agency Liaison will ensure individuals providing spiritual care have the appropriate credentials to allow access to the NTS and will be given rules for care that may be offered or restricted (e.g., no proselytizing). 63
177.NGOs with missions and credentials supporting children (e.g., Children’s Disaster Services). 63
178.Community-based, faith-based, cultural, and civic organizations (e.g., Kiwanis, Rotary Club). 63
179.Local childcare resource and referral agencies. 63
180.Resources identified by the National Association of Child Care Resource and Referral Agencies. 64
181.If mass casualty event occurs, NTS management will coordinate with the EOC and/or Family Assistance Centers to assist in transportation and other support services for evacuees at the NTS who are missing or need to identify family. 64
182.Community-based, faith-based, cultural, and civic organizations (e.g., Kiwanis, Rotary Club.) 64
183.Local sports teams. 64
184.Private sector. 64
185.The Logistical Support Team at the NTS will make requests for supply and resupply of material resources to the Logistics Management and Resource Support Branch. Requests may include shelter equipment, food and other consumables, durable medical equipment, consumable medical supplies, and accessibility equipment (e.g., ramps). 66
186.The Logistical Support Team will track and maintain an inventory of all resources in use or in storage at the NTS. 66
187.Additional Infrastructure Support for an Open Space Shelter 67
188.Logistics will set up laundry services on site or at an off-site vendor. 67
189.Immediate evacuee care and support resource needs at an NTS will include: 67
190.Additional resources needed for people with disabilities and others with access and functional needs may include: 67
191.Distribution of Commodities 68
192.Types of Commodities 69
193.Requests for additional resources will be made by the on-site Logistical Support Team to the Logistics Management and Resource Support Branch. Additional resources may be provided using the following: 70
194.Requests for transportation resources will be made to the Transportation Branch via Logistics. 70
195.Public transportation 71
196.Support supplies for transportation 71
197.Assessment of the NTS population demographics data will be conducted to determine an estimate of the number of NTS evacuees that are likely to need transportation assistance. 71
198.The Mass Care Branch, in coordination with the Transportation Branch, will coordinate inbound evacuation transportation with on-site Traffic Control. 71
199.If there is an acute medical issue that requires immediate transportation to a hospital, NTS staff will call 9-1-1 and advise health personnel on site. 71
200.Emergency Medical Staff assigned by the EMS Agency will assist with triage and priority transport assessments as needed. 72
201.Vehicles capable of transporting durable medical equipment will be requested as needed including: 72
202.Information to evacuees will include updates on the impact area, return and recovery plans and status, activities and updates on the NTS operations, and resources that are available to them and how to access them. 72
203.Public information will be provided to evacuees and for evacuee use in the following ways: 72
204.All information should be accessible to people with disabilities and others with access and functional needs, in alternate formats and multiple languages, when possible. The following methods can be used to disseminate information: 72
205.The Public Information Team will: 73
206.Drop-off and pick-up locations. 73
207.Accessibility. 74
208.[Jurisdiction’s agency responsible for household pet sheltering] will assign a Household Pet Shelter liaison to the NTS. 74
209.[Jurisdiction’s agency responsible for household pet sheltering] will assign staff to the NTS registration area. 74
210.At the NTS reception area, owners will be notified of the pet policy and have their animal registered and taken to the Household Pet Shelter. The policy will be communicated in multiple languages and will be accessible to all evacuees. 74
211.Household pet registration will include: 74
212.If the Household Pet Shelter is in close proximity to the NTS, NTS Unified Command will work with [Jurisdiction’s agency responsible for household pet sheltering] to arrange visitation by owners and possible owner care of their household pet(s), when possible and where applicable. 74
213.The Public Information Team will coordinate with the Household Pet Shelter liaison to disseminate information to evacuees at the NTS about Household Pet Shelter policies. 74
214.Appropriate security will be stationed in reunification area. 75
215.To be reunified with their household pet(s): 75
216.The Recovery Supervisor will: 75
217.The recovery transition plan at the NTS will be coordinated with the [Jurisdiction’s annexes that refer to evacuee recovery]. 75
218.The Public Information Officer, in coordination with the Unified Command and EOC, will: 76
219.NGO and private sector recovery resources. 76
220. Community Development Block Grants (CDBG). 76
221.FEMA and the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) programs and services. 76
222.An NTS will remain open until evacuees have returned to their homes, transitioned to interim or permanent housing, or relocated to another area. 77
223.The local jurisdiction emergency manager will consult with the EOC Operations Section Chief and the MC Branch to determine when it is appropriate to begin the demobilization phase of NTS operations. Factors that may lead to demobilization may include a sizable decrease in the number of evacuees remaining in the NTS, the ability and decision by evacuees to return home or relocate to another area, or availability of interim or permanent housing resources. 77
224.The Logistics function will: 77
225.The NTS Unified Command will: 77
226.Each Branch will keep accurate administrative records for all resources within their responsibility requested by NGOs to support the operations at an NTS. 78
227.For supplies that are requested by NGOs providing services at an NTS that are not eligible for State or Federal reimbursement, the NGOs will maintain their own administrative records for internal purposes. 78
228.If an NTS is activated by an unaffected local jurisdiction that has agreed to be a host jurisdiction for an evacuating population and that incident/event has received a Presidential disaster declaration or emergency declaration, some or all costs may be reimbursable under FEMA’s Public Assistance Grant Program specific to host areas. 78
229.If an NTS is activated during an incident/event that is at a local or State level in which no Presidential disaster declaration has been made, funding will be the responsibility of local and/or State jurisdictions. 78
230.As accurate and clear record keeping is necessary for cost recovery, NTS Finance & Administration should discuss the reimbursement process, requirements, and procedures with the EOC when the NTS ConOps and NTS is activated. For more information, refer to local and State emergency management directives and Federal guidance for Public Assistance. 78
231. [The Jurisdiction’s government lead for MC] will be responsible for maintaining accounting and tracking of all operational and financial records at an NTS when the [Jurisdiction] is operating the shelter. 78
232.[Jurisdiction] departments that provide equipment or personnel to support NTS operations of NGOs will make arrangements with [the Jurisdiction’s government lead for MC] to submit cost tracking documentation as soon as reasonably possible following the demobilization of NTS operations. Each [Jurisdiction] department has a responsibility to track and maintain their own financial documentation. 78
233.[Primary support agency responsible for MC] may request additional resources from the EOC to support NTS operations, such as security or DME and CMS. In these instances, the appropriate EOC Branch will be responsible for the accounting and tracking of these operational and financial records for submission for state or Federal reimbursement. 78
234.Spontaneous open space shelter initiated by the disaster-affected population. 90
235.Open space shelter initiated by government. 90
236.Mega-shelter: Reliant Park, Houston. 90
237.Spontaneous open space shelter initiated by the disaster-affected population. 90
238.Mega-shelter: Qualcomm Stadium, San Diego. 90
239.Mega-Shelter: National Orange Show Fairgrounds, San Bernardino. 90
240.Mega-shelter: Houston former retail space. 90
241.Open space shelter Galveston Island. 90
242.Open space shelter resources provided to the disaster-affected population. 90
243.Open space staff shelter. 90
244.Spontaneous open space shelters initiated by the disaster-affected population. 90
245.Mega-shelter: Moscone Convention Center. 90
246.Spontaneous open space shelter initiated by the disaster-affected population. 90
247.Mega-shelter for an extended period of time (5 months) 90
1.Open space shelters: 91
a.Various parks; 20,000 evacuees 91
b.Los Angeles, North Hollywood, and the San Fernando Valley 91
c.Reseda Park used by evacuees with their own tents 91
1.Mega-shelters 92
d.Cajundome, Lafayette LA; sheltered 18,500 evacuees over 58 days; 409,000 meals served 92
e.Reliant Park, Houston, TX; 27,100 evacuees over 37 days 92
f.Dallas Convention Center & Reunion Arena, Dallas, TX; 25,000 evacuees over 39 days; 114,200 meals served 92
g.Superdome, New Orleans, LA; sheltered approx. 9,000 evacuees and 550 National Guardsmen. Estimated peak population between 15,000 and 20,000 92
248.Open space shelters: 92
h.City Hall, New Orleans, LA; sheltered 250 evacuees 92
i.Waveland, MS; sheltered 65 evacuees 92
j.I-10; sheltered 200 evacuees 92
k.Long Beach, MS 92
l.Pass Christian, MS; sheltered 1,000 evacuees 92
1.Evacuees sheltering in tents on their property were supported by CBOs 92
249.Open space shelters opened in Dulzura and the Naval Amphibious Base Coronado 92
250.Mega-shelter opened at Qualcomm Stadium and other evacuees stayed in their own campers in the parking lot 92
1.Mega-shelter in Houston, TX 93
251.Open space shelters opened in Lufkin, TX and on Galveston Island, TX 93
1.Individual tents distributed, through a partnership of FEMA, the Red Cross, and the National Guard, enabled families to remain on their property. 93
Epicenter located in Rosemead, CA 94
October 1, 1987 94
7:42am local time 94
Magnitude 5.9 earthquake; three days later on October 4 a 5.6 aftershock struck. 94
1.Spontaneous open space shelters initiated by the disaster-affected population. 94
2.Response agencies provided support. 94
Epicenter located in the Santa Cruz Mountains, CA. The earthquake impacted the entire San Francisco Bay Area. 94
October 17, 1989 94
5:04pm local time 94
Magnitude 6.9 earthquake 94
1.Mega-shelter at the Moscone Convention Center in San Francisco, CA. 94
2.Spontaneous open space shelters initiated by the disaster-affected population. 94
Minot, ND 94
June, 2011 95
Flooding 95
1.Mega-shelter for an extended period of time (5 months) 95
252.Mega-shelter in Houston, TX 96
253.Open space shelters opened in Lufkin, TX and on Galveston Island, TX 96
254.The Operations Section Chief will spend a signification amount of time in the dorm area, and in coordination with the dormitory management group, to maintain situational awareness. 103
255.Staff for the NTS dormitory areas will include those listed in Table 1 below. 103
256.Oversee all dorm operations. 103
257.Liaise with NTS UC/IC. 103
258.Communicate staffing needs to NTS on-site Logistics. 103
259.Coordinate with other functions for support services (e.g., resources). 103
260.Coordinate with other functions for support services (e.g., custodial, resources). 103
261.Brief incoming dorm staff on roles and responsibilities provided by specific staff. 103
1.Set up dorm areas of NTS. 103
262.Collect evacuee data, input into database system or provide to NTS UC/IC. 103
263.Provide information to evacuees regarding other services in an NTS. 103
1.Provide personal caregiving assistance to evacuees who require it. 104
2.Assist evacuees with service animals in maintaining their animals (e.g., feeding, walking) if they are unable to do so themselves. 104
1.Support ongoing health needs of evacuees and staff. 104
264.Provide resources to support medical sheltering. 104
265.Coordinate with Sanitation for vector control. 104
1.Monitor evacuee population and staff for mental health needs. 104
266.Provide crisis counseling as needed. 104
267.Refer evacuees with mental health needs beyond the capabilities of an NTS to external resources. 104
1.Provide appropriate security in and access to the dorm area. 104
1.Patrol dorm area. 104
268.Provide general information to evacuees (e.g., where to get services). 104
269.Provide situational awareness and intelligence to dorm management. 104
1.Clean dorm common areas and relief/hygiene areas (e.g., toilets, showers). 104
2.Coordinate with Health & Medical for vector control. 104
270.Dispose of trash and clean trash receptacles. 104
271.Establish an NTS dormitory management group comprised of the following: 105
272.Establish an NTS dormitory staff structure: 105
273.A staffing ratio of one dorm worker per 100 evacuees (1:100) in the dorm is recommended per shift, if available.4 105
274.In coordination with Security, determine what control mechanisms will be needed to allow people into the dorm area (e.g., security posts, wrist bands). 106
275.Separate dorm space will be set up for single men, single women, families, and NTS staff. 106
276.Every effort will be made to ensure people with disabilities and others with access and functional needs are sheltered within the general population. If available resources or infrastructure do not facilitate universal access, alternatives will be provided as available. If possible, the following will also be provided to these evacuees: 106
277.Given the size, population, and extended duration of operating an NTS, a dorm layout will be created with “addresses” similar to that of a neighborhood community environment within the dorm space/living area. This will allow dorm management and other assistance services operating within the dorm to more easily locate evacuees and will help evacuees locate their cot area or, in an open space shelter, their household lots. 106
278.Additional Space Considerations for Open Space Shelters 107
279.Determine what information (e.g., population demographics, roles and responsibilities, layout and functional areas of the NTS) needs to be provided in a job induction for each dorm responsibility and who can provide that information. 107
280.Coordinate with the Health and Medical function to provide support (e.g., help with self-feeding and showering) to people with disabilities and others with access and functional needs. 107
281.Develop a plan to assess the skills and abilities of evacuees who can provide volunteer support, create a system to schedule evacuee’s volunteer work, and ensure they have adequate training and supervision to accomplish their assigned tasks. 107
282.Coordinate with the Resource Unit for additional staff needs. 107
283.Resources include the following: 108
284.The Logistics function will coordinate with the EOC or on-site vendor for scheduling and capacity and work with the MC function to create a rotation schedule for evacuees. 109
285.Laundry by evacuees 109
286.Processes for washing staff laundry separately from evacuee laundry. 110
287.Separate areas for washing, sorting, folding, and storage. 110
288.A rotation schedule for evacuees to exchange their dirty linens for clean ones will be implemented by dormitory management and posted in dorms. 110
289.A timetable will be implemented for when each dorm area will be cleaned and serviced (e.g., floor cleaning, trash collection). This schedule will be posted in the dorms. Additional cleaning supplies will be provided so evacuees can keep areas clean between cleaning cycles. 110
290.An adequate number and size of garbage bins, trash cans, and trash bags will be placed in the dorms for use by evacuees and staff. 110
291.The messaging of rules and routines will be coordinated with the on-site PIO. Rules, routines, and consequences of violating them will be communicated to evacuees through visibly posted signage, written handouts (if possible), and PIO updates. 110
292.All information regarding rules and routines will be provided in alternate formats to support people with disabilities and others with access and functional needs. 110
293.Dorm staff will be advised of rules and routines at orientation and staff meetings and will be advised how to respond to issues and rule violations by evacuees (e.g., advise Dorm Supervisor, contact Security). 110
294.Visitors making social visits to evacuees will enter through designated secure NTS entry points, be credentialed by Registration as a visitor, and will only be allowed in designated areas. 110
295.Appropriate bio-hazard disposal bins will be placed in medical areas to ensure proper disposal. 110
296.Ensure all appropriate data is accurately entered into the [insert if applicable: National Shelter System (NSS), which is the responsibility of the Red Cross or list other specific system of record the Jurisdiction uses] at noon and midnight and provided in a Situation Report (SitRep). SitReps will be provided to the NTS Incident Commander once daily at their advised designated time. 111
297.Ensure other activities are reported to their relevant function and follow local SOPs or other reporting protocols set by the EOC (e.g., disease surveillance statistics to the Health and Medical Branch). 111
298.Maintain log books for all functions within the dorm to record significant information, problems, solutions, and actions taken; report significant events, incidents, and issues in daily SitRep. 111
299.Conduct a dorm staff meeting at least once per shift. Include updates on the following: 111
300.Maintain a record of shelter activities on [report name of primary support agency for MC]. 111
301.Maintain continued interaction with the NTS Incident Commander for updates on dorm conditions, staff requirements, and other dorm-related information. 111
302.Ensure appropriate records (e.g., name, contact information, shift, agency, identification number) on all dorm staff are kept and provided to [the staff services department of the primary support agency for MC] at the [location]. 111
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